Seeing the ads for birth control delivery websites all over the media and articles talking about the benefits of birth control made me wonder if it really was a good idea. So here is what I have learned about what the ups and downs are for getting “the pill” delivered.
Pros:
Don’t have to go anywhere
Not having to leave the house or go pick up your pills would be SO convenient. Finding the time or remembering to go to the pharmacy can be a hassle sometimes and especially if you don’t pick up your birth control on-time it can throw you off your schedule.
Medical advice and resources
Some of the websites have options to talk to a medical professional to get one-on-one advice for you to pick the best pill. Some also have features like STI testing or emergency contraceptives.
“Contraception deserts”
There are many rural areas or small cities in the U.S far away from any OB-GYN offices or places that have resources for sexual health. These “contraception deserts” make it very difficult for women to seek out care or medical attention.
Health Insurance
Sadly, the number of people in the country who don’t have access to health insurance coverage is super high. Some delivery subscriptions don’t require health insurance or the need to get a prescription.
Medical questionnaires
When starting a subscription for delivery, usually the website will have the woman fill out a brief form. They ask about past health history, health conditions, and other questions that a doctor would usually ask during an in-person appointment for birth control. The woman’s answers help the professional give her medical advice on the right pill or contraceptive for her.
Cons:
Virtual doctor
Meeting with a medical professional in-person gives women the opportunities for routine check-ups and examinations for abnormal things going on down there. Only interacting with a virtual doctor runs the risk of new diseases or conditions coming up undetected if the woman doesn’t go to a real office.
Health complications
Another issue with having a virtual doctor is they cannot check for uncontrolled blood pressure, specific types of migraines, and other things that would cause severe complications with some pills. Some women don’t even know they have any issues when filling out the forms for starting a subscription for delivery.
Steamy Delivery
A postal truck in Arizona was reported to be able to cook a steak inside with all the mail reaching 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Any medication including B.C can lose its potency and effects if not stored in a cool or room temperature space. Depending on the weather, a mail truck could potentially bake your pills, leaving them ineffective.
Not enough info
On many of the websites, the companies don’t offer or inform women about other long-lasting reversible options like IUDs and on top of that, it’s not something you get delivered for a DIY project. Many go on the sites looking for something specific and they’ll get help finding that certain contraceptive, without any other info on other options.
Bottom Line: Do a little research and look around at some different websites, companies, and doctors if you’re considering getting “the pill” delivered.